Commiphora Face Cleanser

An exfoliating gel cleanser that combines AHAs, BHA, and Niacinamide with Commiphora Wildii — an aromatic resin from a biodynamic shrub sustainably harvested in the Namibian desert. pH-balanced at 4.5–5.5, sulfate-free, and formulated with biodegradable plant-derived surfactants for a low-foam, non-stripping lather. It cleanses, exfoliates, and resets the skin in a single daily step. Not suitable for vegans due to Silk Amino Acids.

Commiphora Wildii — Namibian Myrrh — is an aromatic resin extracted from a biodynamic shrub ethically harvested in the Namibian desert. It has been used for centuries across southern Africa for its antibacterial, rejuvenating, and skin-balancing properties. In this formula it provides active purification and rebalancing at a biological level — not simply surface cleansing — while its warm, citrus, earthy aromatherapy note grounds and relaxes the nervous system during the cleansing ritual. Sustainably cultivated. Ethically sourced. Entirely irreplaceable in this formula.

It resets the skin comprehensively in a single step. Niacinamide at 6% minimizes pores and evens skin tone. Lactic and Mandelic Acids increase cell turnover, reduce fine lines, and address acne. Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to clear congestion and prevent blemishes. Silk Amino Acids and Panthenol hydrate and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. Rooibos, Honeybush, and Rose Geranium soothe inflammation and protect against environmental stress. Bulbinella cleanses impurities and reduces breakout-associated redness. Aloe Ferox and Kigelia firm, tone, and hydrate. The result: tighter pores, balanced oil production, fewer breakouts, and a visibly more even, radiant complexion — every day.

AHAs — Alpha Hydroxy Acids — are water-soluble and work on the skin's surface, dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin underneath. Lactic Acid hydrates while exfoliating. Mandelic Acid is the gentlest AHA, making it suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin. BHA — Beta Hydroxy Acid, specifically Salicylic Acid — is oil-soluble and penetrates inside the pore, dissolving the sebum and debris that cause congestion and breakouts. Used together, AHAs resurface the skin's surface while BHA purifies at the pore level simultaneously — covering every dimension of exfoliation in a single formula.

Niacinamide — Vitamin B3 — is one of the most well-researched active ingredients in skincare, with demonstrated efficacy at minimizing pore appearance, improving uneven skin tone, strengthening the barrier, and reducing inflammation. At 6% it delivers meaningful visible results — minimizing enlarged pores and improving discoloration — without the irritation that higher concentrations can cause, particularly when combined with the acid complex in this formula. It is the ingredient that makes this cleanser as much a treatment as it is a purifier.

Silk Amino Acids are small-chain proteins derived from silk that penetrate the skin's surface to deliver immediate hydration, anti-inflammatory benefits, and protection against trans-epidermal water loss. Their presence in this formula is the primary reason an acid-rich exfoliating cleanser can be used daily — they counterbalance the exfoliation by restoring and maintaining the skin's moisture content throughout the cleanse. Skin that would typically become dry or sensitized by regular acid use remains comfortable, hydrated, and resilient.

Morning or evening. Apply an almond-sized amount to damp skin and massage gently onto face, neck, and décolletage. The gel emulsifies on contact with water into a low-foam lather. Rinse thoroughly. In the morning, always follow with SPF as the last step — AHAs and BHA increase UV sensitivity. For drier skin types, use as a treatment cleanser up to twice a week rather than daily, alternating with a gentler cleanser.

Yes — and this is the recommended ritual for those wearing makeup or SPF. Begin with the Pure Marula Cleansing Oil on dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and surface impurities. Follow with the Commiphora Face Cleanser on damp skin as the active second cleanse — the acid complex and Niacinamide then work on a completely clean canvas, maximizing their efficacy. The combination covers every function: oil dissolution, pore purification, exfoliation, and barrier support.

It is formulated to be gentle enough for daily use — but it contains AHAs, BHA, and 6% Niacinamide, which are active ingredients. Those with highly sensitized or compromised skin should introduce it gradually — beginning with use two to three times per week — and patch test before full application. For reactive skin that cannot tolerate acids, the Baobab Clay Oxygenating Cleanser is the more appropriate daily cleanser.

Yes — but with care. Both acids and retinoids increase cellular turnover and UV sensitivity. Using the Commiphora Face Cleanser in the morning and a retinol formula at night is a well-established routine. Avoid using both in the same step. Always apply SPF in the morning without exception when using either actives.

This formula contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and AHAs. Topical Salicylic Acid at low concentrations in rinse-off formulas is generally considered low-risk, but guidance varies. As with any active skincare product, consult your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

No. The formula contains Silk Amino Acids — an animal-derived ingredient — and is therefore not suitable for vegans. It is 100% cruelty-free, made with ethically and responsibly sourced ingredients.

Normal, combination, oily, acne-prone, and blemished skin. Particularly effective in warm and humid climates where congestion, excess sebum, and breakouts are more prevalent. For dry or mature skin, use as a treatment cleanser two to three times per week rather than daily.

With twice-daily use of an almond-sized amount, 100ml typically lasts two to three months.